Air bag apparatus for driver&#39;s seat

ABSTRACT

An air bag apparatus with a steering wheel is formed of a steering wheel section having a wheel center portion, wheel spoke portions extending radially outwardly from the wheel center portion and a wheel section attached to the wheel spoke portions; a retainer attached to the steering wheel section; an air bag mounted on the retainer and disposed in the wheel center portion and the wheel spoke portions; an inflator connected to the retainer for inflating the air bag; and a module cover connected to the retainer for covering the air bag. The module cover has a cover center portion and cover spoke portions extending from the cover center portion corresponding to the wheel center portion and the wheel spoke portions. The air bag apparatus for the driver&#39;s seat is made compact and has a slim appearance.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND RELATED ART STATEMENT

[0001] The present invention relates to an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat to be mounted on the steering of the automobile.

[0002] Referring now to FIGS. 23(A) and 23(B), an example of an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat according to the related art will be described. FIG. 23(A) is a plan view of an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat according to the related art, and FIG. 23(B) is a cross sectional view taken along line 23(B)-23(B) in FIG. 23(A), and FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing a modular cover viewed from the backside.

[0003] A retainer 110 comprises a flat plate portion 114 to which an air bag 112 is attached, and a module cover connecting portion 116 which is a strip extending from the edge of the flat plate portion 114 to the direction opposite to a driver. The air bag 112 in the folded state is covered with a module cover 118. The module cover 118 comprises a main plate 118A facing the driver and leg portions 118B extending from the side portion of the main plate in the direction opposite to the driver. The leg portions 118B are secured to the module cover connecting portion 116 of the retainer 110 by rivets 120 or the like. The reference numeral 122 designates a reinforcing plate.

[0004] An inflator 124 is secured to the retainer 110 in such a manner that the upper side thereof is accommodated in the air bag 112 through an opening 126 formed on the flat plate portion 114. A ring 128 is an air bag connecting member. The opened edge of the air bag 112 is sandwiched between the ring 128 and the opened edge portion of the flat plate portion 114, so that the air bag 112 is secured to the retainer 110. Bolts, not shown, which are fixed to the ring 128, are inserted into bolt insertion holes formed at the opened edge of the air bag 112, the flat plate portion 114 of the retainer, and a flange 124 a of the inflator 124, and nuts are tightened onto the bolts.

[0005] The back surface of the main plate 118A of the module cover 118 has tear lines 130, 132, 134 of shallow grooves formed as weakened portion for ripping the main plate 118A. The tear lines 130, 132 extend along the leg portions 118B on the left side and the right side in FIG. 23(A) in the vertical direction of FIG. 23(A). The tear line 134 extends laterally of FIG. 23(A) at about the center of the main plate 118A so as to connect the tear lines 130 and 132 together.

[0006] The main plate 118A of the module cover surrounded by these tear lines 130, 132 and 134 are divided into two sections, i.e. flaps 140 and 142. When the inflator 124 is operated to blow gas to inflate the air bag 112, the portions of the module cover 118 along the tear lines 130, 132 and 134 are torn or ripped, so that the flaps 140, 142 can be outwardly opened respectively into a tongue shape.

[0007] When the inflator 124 operates in association with the collision of the vehicle, a large amount of gas is rapidly blown out from the inflator 124 and the air bag 112 starts to inflate. Then, the module cover 118 is ripped along the tear lines 130, 132 and 134 in association with the inflation of the air bag 112, and the flaps 140 and 142 are respectively opened into a tongue shape, so that the air bag 112 is rapidly inflated in the compartment of the vehicle to protect the driver therein.

[0008] Though the air bag apparatus for a driver's seat comprises three spoke portions 151, 152 and 153, an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat having two or four spoke portions is also widely used.

[0009]FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a steering wheel 165 having an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat 160 having four spoke portions 161, 162, 163 and 164. There is also provided a tear line 167 on a module cover 166 of the air bag apparatus for a driver's seat 160.

[0010] The module cover 118 or 166 of the above described related air bag apparatus for a driver's seat comprises a center portion and spoke portions extending from the center portion radially outwardly, and the air bag is covered only with the center portion.

[0011] In this way, in the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat covered only with the center portion of the module cover 118 or 166, the module cover and the air bag apparatus are significantly large because they have to cover the air bag.

[0012] Accordingly, in view of the above problem of the related art, the object of the present invention is to provide an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat having relatively small and slim appearance.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] An air bag apparatus for a driver's seat according to the present invention comprises a retainer, an air bag mounted on the retainer, an inflator for inflating the air bag, a module cover for covering the air bag, a center portion disposed at about the center of a steering wheel, and spoke portions extending outwardly from the center portion. The module cover extends from the center portion to the spoke portions. The air bag is arranged in the portion extending from the center portion to the spoke portions.

[0014] The air bag apparatus for the driver's seat of the present invention is connected to the steering wheel and comprises the center portion provided at about the center of the steering wheel and the spoke portions extending from the center portion and being connected to the steering wheel. The air bag mounted to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat is folded into the shape so as to be overlaid on the center portion and the spoke portions and arranged so as to extend from the center portion to the spoke portions. The air bag is covered with the module cover that extends from the center portion to the spoke portions.

[0015] By expanding the air bag storage portion to the center portion and the spoke portions of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat, the center portion of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat can be downsized to a relatively small configuration, whereby the steering having the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat may be formed in a slim design with a small center portion and elongated spoke portions.

[0016] In the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat of the present invention, the module cover has preferably at least one linear weakened portion to be torn, and the weakened portion extends from the center portion to the spoke portions.

[0017] In the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat in such a structure, when the inflator is operated to blow gas and the air bag is inflated, the air bag presses the module cover, and this pressing force concentrates a stress to the weakened portion to break the weakened portion so as to rip the module cover easily from the center portion to the spoke portions. As a consequent, it ensures that the module cover is ripped from the center portion to the spoke portions without interfering the inflation of the air bag that extends from the center portion to the spoke portions of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat, so that quick inflation of the air bag toward the compartment of the vehicle is made.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a steering comprising an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019]FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an air bag of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat of FIG. 1 in a stored state;

[0020] FIGS. 3(A)-3(E) are explanatory views showing a method of folding and arranging the air bag of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat of FIG. 1;

[0021] FIGS. 4(A)-4(E) are explanatory drawings showing an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] FIGS. 5(A)-5(E) are explanatory drawings showing an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0023]FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a different embodiment of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat of FIGS. 5(A)-5(E);

[0024]FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the air bag of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat of FIG. 6 in the stored state;

[0025] FIGS. 8(A)-8(D) are explanatory drawings showing a first embodiment of a second method of folding the air bag;

[0026] FIGS. 9(A)-9(D) are explanatory drawings showing a second embodiment of the second method of folding the air bag;

[0027] FIGS. 10(A) and 10(B) are explanatory drawings showing a third embodiment of the second method of folding the air bag;

[0028] FIGS. 11(A) and 11(B) are explanatory drawings showing the third embodiment of the second method of folding the air bag;

[0029] FIGS. 12(A) and 12(B) are explanatory drawings showing the third embodiment of the second method of folding the air bag;

[0030] FIGS. 13(A) and 13(B) are explanatory drawings showing the third embodiment of the second method of folding the air bag;

[0031] FIGS. 14(A) and 14(B) are explanatory drawings showing a third method of folding the air bag;

[0032] FIGS. 15(A) and 15(B) are explanatory drawings showing the third method of folding the air bag;

[0033] FIGS. 16(A) and 16(B) are explanatory drawings showing the third method of folding the air bag;

[0034] FIGS. 17(A) and 17(B) are explanatory drawings showing a fourth method of folding the air bag;

[0035] FIGS. 18(A) and 18(B) are explanatory drawings showing the fourth method of folding the air bag;

[0036] FIGS. 19(A) and 19(B) are explanatory drawings showing the fourth method of folding the air bag;

[0037] FIGS. 20(A) and 20(B) are explanatory drawings showing a fifth method of folding the air bag;

[0038] FIGS. 21(A) and 21(B) are explanatory drawings showing the fifth method of folding the air bag;

[0039] FIGS. 22(A) and 22(B) are explanatory drawings showing the fifth method of folding the air bag;

[0040] FIGS. 23(A) and 23(B) are explanatory drawings showing an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat of the related art;

[0041]FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the module cover of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat of FIGS. 23(A) and 23(B) viewed from the backside; and

[0042]FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing an air bag apparatus for the driver's seat according to another related art.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0043] Referring now to the drawings, embodiments of the present invention are illustrated. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a steering having an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 and FIGS. 3(A)-3(E) are explanatory drawings showing the air bag in a stored state and how to fold the air bag.

[0044] An air bag apparatus 1 for a driver's seat is connected to or combined with a steering wheel 100, and comprises a center portion 2 located at about a center of the steering wheel 100, three spoke portions 3 a, 3 b and 3 c extending from the center portion 2 and being connected to the steering wheel 100, an air bag 10 disposed so as to extend from the center portion 2 to the respective spoke portions 3 a to 3 c, and a module cover 4 extending along the front surfaces of the center portion 2 and the respective spoke portions 3 a to 3 c. The air bag apparatus 1 for the driver's seat is also provided with, as in the above described air bag apparatus 140 for the driver's seat of the related art, a retainer to which the air bag 10 is mounted, an inflator for inflating the air bag 10, and a module cover connecting member, not shown.

[0045] The module cover 4 comprises a center portion 5, and three spoke portions 6 a, 6 b and 6 c extending outwardly from the center portion 5. The center portion 5 and the respective spoke portions 6 a to 6 c are disposed so as to extend along the front side of the center portion 2 and the spoke portions 3 a to 3 c described above and cover the air bag 10.

[0046] The module cover 4 has three tear lines, i.e. linear weakened portions, 7 a to 7 c, for ripping the module cover 4 on the backside. These tear lines 7 a to 7 c extend from the center portion 5 of the module cover 4 to the spoke portions 6 a to 6 c along the directions in which the respective spoke portions 6 a to 6 c of the module cover 4 extend, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0047] The module cover 4 is mounted on the side of the front surface of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 1 via the connecting member described above, not shown, so that when the inflator is operated to eject gas to inflate the air bag 10, the tear lines 7 a to 7 c are torn and thus the module cover 4 is ripped from the center portion 5 to the respective spoke portions 6 a to 6 c and the respective portions of the module cover are opened outwardly into a tongue shape.

[0048] The air bag 10 is formed into a bag shape by disposing a fabric for the front surface (front panel) 10 a and a fabric for the rear surface (rear panel) lob together, and sewing the peripheral portions by using a sewing machine.

[0049] The air bag 10 has a flat circular shape as shown in FIG. 3(A) before it is folded, and formed with an opening 12 for receiving the tip side of the inflator to the center of the rear surface (rear panel lob). The air bag 10 is also formed with vent holes 14 for intaking air when the air bag 10 is inflated, and for releasing air in the air bag to absorb impact when a body or driver is bumped into the inflated air bag 10.

[0050] The inflator is secured to the retainer in such a manner that the upper end thereof is accommodated in the air bag 10 through the opening (not shown) formed in the retainer. The air bag 10 is disposed to overlap the peripheral edge of the opening 12 formed on the rear surface with the peripheral portion of the opening formed in the retainer, and is secured to the retainer by being sandwiched between the peripheral portion of the opening of the retainer and an annular connecting member (not shown), as in the related art explained before. The retainer is disposed in the center portion 2.

[0051] The air bag 10 is, as shown in FIG. 2, covered with the module cover 4 in the state that the air bag is folded in generally Y-shape extending from the center portion 2 to the respective spoke portions 3 a to 3 c.

[0052] Referring now to FIGS. 3(A)-3(E), how to fold the air bag 10 is illustrated. FIGS. 3(A) to 3(C) are explanatory drawings showing how to fold the air bag 10, FIG. 3(D) is a plan view showing the arrangement of the folded body of the air bag 10, and FIG. 3(E) is a cross sectional view taken along line 3(E)-3(E) in FIG. 3(C).

[0053] To fold the air bag 10, the air bag 10 is spread out into a flat shape in a first place (FIG. 3(A)). Then, the upper edge and the lower left and right edges of the air bag 10 are respectively folded in a form of bellows along the folding lines L1 extending generally along the peripheries of the center portion 2 and the respective spoke portions 3 a to 3 c, and these edges are folded so as to be gathered at the center of the air bag (FIG. 3(B)). As a consequent, a folded body of the air bag 10 is formed to generally have a Y-shape having three arm portions 16 a, 16 b and 16 c extending outwardly from the center (FIG. 3(C)).

[0054] The air bag 10 so folded is arranged so that the arm portions 16 a to 16 c extend along the front surfaces of the spoke portions 6 a to 6 c respectively. Incidentally, the air bag 10 is secured to the retainer at the center thereof prior to the folding operation. Then, the module cover 4 is placed on the air bag 10 to complete the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 1 as shown in FIG. 1. The air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 1 is connected to the steering wheel 100 as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3(D).

[0055] In the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 1 thus constructed, when the inflator is operated to eject gas, the air bag 10 is inflated and thus presses the module cover 4 to allow the tear lines 7 a to 7 c to tear, so that the module cover 4 is ripped from the center portion 5 to the respective spoke portions 6 a to 6 c, and then opens the module cover 4 outwardly. Thereafter, the air bag 10 is rapidly inflated toward the compartment of the vehicle and receives the driver to absorb the impact.

[0056] In the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 1, the air bag 10 is folded into a generally Y-shape corresponding to the center portion 2 and three spoke portions 3 a to 3 c, and the folded body of the air bag 10 is arranged so as to extend from the center potion 2 to the respective spoke portions 3 a to 3 c. Thus, the center portion 2 may be downsized to a relatively small configuration. As a result, the steering wheel with a slim design having a small center portion and elongated spoke portions is formed.

[0057] Since the tear lines 7 a to 7 c are formed to extend from the center portion 15 to the three spoke portions 16 a to 16 c of the module cover 4 on the backside of the module cover 4, the module cover 4 can be torn from the center portion 15 to the respective spoke portions 16 a to 16 c. Also, the air bag 10 can be rapidly inflated toward the compartment of the vehicle without being interfered by the module cover so as to extend from the center portion 2 to the spoke portions 3 a to 3 c.

[0058] Though the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 1 comprises three spoke portions 3 a to 3 c, it is not limited thereto, and the number of the spoke portion may be two or four, or more.

[0059] The tear line may be any type as far as it extends from the center portion to the respective spoke portions of the module cover within the range that does not interfere the inflation of the air bag.

[0060] Referring now to FIGS. 4(A)-4(E) and FIGS. 5(A)-5(E), the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat according to another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in detail.

[0061] FIGS. 4(A)-4(E) are explanatory drawings showing the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat according to another embodiment of the present invention, in which FIGS. 4(A) to 4(C) are explanatory drawings showing how to fold the air bag of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat, FIG. 4(D) is an explanatory drawing showing the structure of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat, and FIG. 4(E) is a cross sectional view taken along line 4(E)-4(E) in FIG. 4(C).

[0062] An air bag apparatus for a driver's seat 20 is connected to or combined with a steering wheel 102 and comprises a center portion 22 located generally at the center of the steering wheel 102, four spoke portions 23 a, 23 b, 23 c and 23 d extending from the center portion 22 and connected to the steering wheel 102, an air bag 30 arranged from the center portion 22 to the spoke portions 23 a to 23 d, and a module cover 24 for covering the air bag 30 and extending along the front surface of the center portion 22 and the spoke portions 23 a to 23 d. The air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 20 includes, as in the air bag apparatus for a driver's seat 1 described above, a retainer to which the air bag 30 is mounted, an inflator for inflating the air bag 30, and a module cover connecting member (not shown).

[0063] The module cover 24 comprises a center portion 25 and four spoke portions 26 a, 26 b, 26 c and 26 d extending outwardly from the center portion 25. The center portion 25 and the spoke portions 26 a to 26 d are disposed on the side of the front face of the center portion 22 and the spoke portions 23 a to 23 d described above to cover the air bag 20.

[0064] The module cover 24 has tear lines 27 a to 27 e on the backside for ripping the module cover. The tear lines 27 a to 27 d extend from the center portion 25 of the module cover 24 to the respective spoke portions 26 a to 26 d along the directions in which the respective spoke portions extend. The tear line 27 e is provided so as to connect the respective tear lines 27 a to 27 d at the center portion 25.

[0065] The module cover 24 is mounted to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 20 on the side of the front surface thereof via the connecting member described above, not shown. Thus, when the inflator is operated to eject gas to inflate the air bag 20, the respective tear lines 27 a to 27 e are torn, so that the module cover 24 is ripped from the center portion 25 to the respective spoke portions 26 a to 26 d and thus the portions of the module cover 24 can be opened outwardly in the shape of a tongue.

[0066] The air bag 30 is formed into a bag-shape by disposing a fabric for the front surface (front panel) 30 a and a fabric for the rear surface (rear panel) 30 b together, and sewing the peripheral portions by using a sewing machine.

[0067] The air bag 30 has a flat circular shape as shown in FIG. 4(A) before it is folded, and formed with an opening 32 for connecting the tip side of the inflator at the center of the rear surface (rear panel 30 b). The air bag 30 also has vent holes 34 for intaking air when the air bag 30 is inflated, or for releasing air in the air bag to absorb the impact when a body or driver is bumped into the inflated air bag 30.

[0068] The inflator is secured to the retainer in such a manner that the upper end thereof is accommodated in the air bag 30 through the opening (not shown) formed in the retainer. The air bag 30 is disposed to overlap the peripheral edge of the opening 32 with the peripheral portion of the opening formed in the retainer, and is secured to the retainer by being sandwiched between the peripheral portion of the opening of the retainer and the annular connecting member (not shown). The retainer is mounted in the center portion 22.

[0069] The air bag 30 is, as shown in FIG. 4(D), covered with the module cover 24 in the state that the air bag is folded in a generally X-shape extending from the center portion 22 to the respective spoke portions 23 a to 23 d.

[0070] To fold the air bag 30, the air bag 30 is spread into a flat shape in a first place (FIG. 4(A)). Then, the upper, lower, left and right edges of the air bag 30 are respectively folded in a form of bellows along the folding lines L2 extending generally along the peripheries of the center portion 22 and the respective spoke portions 23 a to 23 d, and these edges are folded so as to be located toward the center of the air bag (FIG. 4(B)). As a consequent, a folded body of the air bag 30 in a generally X-shape having four arm portions 36 a, 36 b, 36 c and 36 d extending outwardly from the center is formed (FIG. 4(C)).

[0071] The air bag 30 so folded is arranged so that the arm portions 36 a to 36 d extend along the front surfaces of the spoke portions 26 a to 26 d, respectively. Incidentally, the air bag 30 is secured to the retainer at the center thereof prior to the folding operation. Then, the module cover 24 is covered on the air bag 30 to complete the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 20. The air bag apparatus for a driver's seat 20 is connected to the steering wheel 102 as shown in FIG. 4(D).

[0072] In the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 20 thus constructed, when the inflator is operated to eject gas, the air bag 30 is inflated and thus presses the module cover 24 to allow the tear lines 27 a to 27 d to tear, so that the module cover 24 is ripped from the center portion 25 to the spoke portions 26 a to 26 d, and then opens outwardly. Thereafter, the air bag 30 is rapidly inflated toward the compartment of the vehicle and receives the driver to absorb the impact.

[0073] In the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 20, the air bag 30 is folded into a generally X-shape corresponding to the center portion 22 and four spoke portions 23 a to 23 d, and the folded body of the air bag 30 is arranged so as to extend from the center potion 22 to the respective spoke portions 23 a to 23 d, and the module cover 24 is extended from the center portion 22 to the respectively spoke portions 23 a to 23 d so as to cover the air bag 30. Therefore, the center portion 22 may be downsized to a relatively small configuration as in the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 1 described above. As a result, also, in the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 20, the steering with a slim design having a small center portion and elongated spoke portions is formed.

[0074] Since the tear lines 27 a to 27 e are formed to extend from the center portion 25 to the four spoke portions 26 a to 26 d of the module cover 24 on the backside of the module cover 24, the module cover 24 can be torn from the center portion 25 to the respective spoke portions 26 a to 26 d, and the air bag 30 extending from the center portion 22 to the spoke portions 23 a to 23 d can be rapidly inflated toward the compartment of the vehicle without being interfered as in the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 1.

[0075] FIGS. 5(A)-5(E) are explanatory drawings showing an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat according to another embodiment of the present invention, in which FIGS. 5(A) to 5(C) are explanatory drawings showing how to fold the air bag for the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat, FIG. 5(D) is an explanatory drawing showing the structure of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat, and FIG. 5(E) is a cross sectional view taken along line 5(E)-5(E) in FIG. 5(C).

[0076] An air bag apparatus for a driver's seat 40 is connected to or combined with a steering wheel 104 and comprises a center portion 42 located generally at the center of the steering wheel 104, two spoke portions 43 a and 43 b extending from the center portion 42 and connected to the steering wheel 104, an air bag 50 arranged so as to extend from the center portion 42 to the spoke portions 43 a and 43 b, and a module cover 44 for covering the air bag 50 and extending along the front surface of the center portion 42 and the respective spoke portions 43 a and 43 b. The air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 50 includes, as in the air bag apparatuses for the driver's seat 1 and 20 described above, a retainer to which the air bag 50 is mounted, an inflator for inflating the air bag 50, and a module cover connecting member, not shown.

[0077] The module cover 44 comprises a center portion 45 and two spoke portions 46 a and 46 b extending outwardly from the center portion 45. The center portion 45 and the spoke portions 46 a and 46 b are disposed on the side of the front face of the center portion 42 and the spoke portions 43 a and 43 b described above to cover the air bag 50.

[0078] The module cover 44 has tear lines (linear weakened portions) 47 on the backside for ripping the module cover 44. The tear lines 47 extend from the center portion 45 of the module cover 44 to the respective spoke portions 46 a and 46 b of the module cover 44 along the directions in which the respective spoke portions 46 a and 46 b extend, as shown in FIG. 5(D).

[0079] The module cover 44 is mounted on the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 40 on the side of the front surface thereof via the connecting member described above, not shown, so that when the inflator is operated to eject gas to inflate the air bag 50, the respective tear lines 47 are torn. Thus, the module cover 44 is ripped from the center portion 45 to the respective spoke portions 46 a and 46 b, and thus the portions of the module cover 44 can be opened outwardly in the shape of a tongue.

[0080] The air bag 50 is formed into a bag-shape by placing a fabric for the front surface (front panel) 50 a and a fabric for the rear surface (rear panel) 50 b together, and sewing the peripheral portions by using a sewing machine.

[0081] The air bag 50 has a flat circular shape as shown in FIG. 5(A) before it is folded, and has an opening 52 for connecting the tip side of the inflator to the center of the rear surface (rear panel 50 b). The air bag 50 also has vent holes 54 for intaking air when the air bag 50 is inflated, or for releasing air in the air bag to absorb the impact when the body or driver is bumped into the inflated air bag 50.

[0082] The inflator is secured to the retainer in such a manner that the upper end thereof is accommodated in the air bag 50 through the opening (not shown) formed in the retainer. The air bag 50 is disposed to overlap the peripheral edge of the opening 52 formed in the rear surface with the peripheral portion of the opening formed in the retainer, and is secured to the retainer by being sandwiched between the peripheral portion of the opening of the retainer and the annular connecting member (not shown). The retainer is disposed in the center portion 42.

[0083] The air bag 50 is, as shown in FIG. 5(D), covered with the module cover 44 in the state that the air bag is folded in a generally elongated linear configuration extending from the center portion 42 to the spoke portions 43 a and 43 b.

[0084] To fold the air bag 50, the air bag 50 is spread out into a flat shape in a first place (FIG. 5(A)). Then, the upper and lower edges of the air bag 50 are respectively folded in a form of bellows along the folding lines L3 extending generally along the peripheries of the center portion and the respective spoke portions 43 a and 43 b (FIG. 5(B)). As a consequent, a folded body of the air bag 50 is formed in a generally elongated linear configuration having two arm portions 56 a and 56 b extending outwardly from the center (FIG. 5(C)).

[0085] The air bag 50 so folded is arranged so that the arm portions 56 a and 56 b extend along the front surface of the spoke portions 43 a and 43 b, respectively. Incidentally, the air bag 50 is secured to the retainer at the center thereof prior to the folding operation. Then, the module cover 44 is placed on the air bag 50 to complete the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 40 shown in FIG. 5(D). The air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 40 is connected to the steering wheel 104 as shown in FIG. 5(D).

[0086] In the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 40, when the inflator is operated to eject gas, the air bag 50 is inflated and thus presses the module cover 44 to allow the tear lines 47 to tear, so that the module cover 44 is ripped from the center portion 45 to the respective spoke portions 46 a and 46 b to open outwardly. Thereafter, the air bag 50 is rapidly inflated toward the compartment of the vehicle and receives the driver to absorb the impact.

[0087] In the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 40, the air bag 50 is folded into a generally elongated linear configuration corresponding to the center portion 42 and two spoke portions 43 a and 43 b, and the folded body of the air bag 50 is arranged so as to extend from the center potion 42 to the respective spoke portions 43 a and 43 b, and the module cover 44 is extended from the center portion 42 to the respective spoke portions 43 a and 43 b so as to cover the air bag 50. Thus, the center portion 42 may be downsized to a relatively small configuration as in the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 1, and the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 20 described above. As a result, also, in the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 40, the steering with a slim design having the small center portion and elongated spoke portions are obtained.

[0088] Since the tear lines 47 are formed to extend from the center portion 45 to the two spoke portions 46 a and 46 b of the module cover 44 on the backside of the module cover 44, the module cover 44 can be easily torn from the center portion 45 to the respective spoke portions 46 a and 46 b, without interfering the inflation of the air bag 50 so as to extend from the center portion 42 to the spoke portions 43 a and 43 b. The air bag 50 can be rapidly inflated toward the compartment of the vehicle.

[0089] In the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat having the air bag folded into a generally elongated linear configuration, the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat may have three or more spoke portions. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, an air bag apparatus for a driver's seat 60 has three spoke portions 63 a, 63 b, and 63 c extending from a center portion 62.

[0090] An air bag 70 is folded into a generally elongated linear configuration and secured to the center portion 62 via a retainer (not shown). Arm portions 76 a and 76 b of the folded body of the air bag 70 are arranged so as to extend respectively along the spoke portions 63 a and 63 b extending toward the opposite directions on the left and right.

[0091] The air bag 70 is covered with a module cover 64 arranged so as to extend from the center portion 62 to the respective spoke portions 63 a and 63 b on the front side thereof. The module cover 64 has tear lines 67 on the backside, extending from the center portion 65 to the respective spoke portions 63 a and 63 b of the module cover 64.

[0092] In the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 60, when the inflator is operated to eject gas to inflate the air bag 70, the tear lines 76 are torn to rip the module cover 64 from the center portion 65 to the respective spoke portions 63 a and 63 b, and the respective parts of the modular cover 64 open outwardly in the shape of a tongue. Thus, the air bag 70 is rapidly inflated toward the compartment of the vehicle without being interfered with its inflation to receive the driver and absorb the impact.

[0093] In this way, since the air bag 70 folded into a generally elongated linear configuration is arranged so as to extend from the center portion 62 of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 60 to a pair of spoke portions 63 a and 63 b extending away from each other, it does not limit the structure of any other spoke portions. As a result, in case the air bag folded into a generally elongated linear configuration is mounted to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat, design of the steering, such as the number of the spoke portions or the construction thereof, can be freely selected.

[0094] In the embodiment described above, although the air bag is folded in a form of bellows along the folding lines L extending generally along the peripheries of the center portion of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat and the respective spoke portions so as to extend from the center portion of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat to the respective spoke portions, the method of folding the air bag is not limited thereto, and it may be folded in other ways. The other ways of folding the air bag are described with specific examples.

[0095] FIGS. 8(A) to 8(C) are explanatory drawings showing the FIGS. 8(A) to 8(C) are explanatory drawings showing the second way of folding the air bag into a generally Y-shaped configuration, and FIG. 8(D) is a cross sectional view taken along line 8(D)-8(D) of FIG. 8(C).

[0096] An air bag 71 has the same construction as the air bag of the embodiment described above and has an opening 72 and vent holes 73 on the backside thereof. The air bag 71 is mounted on the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat (not shown) having three spoke portions, as in the case shown in FIG. 1.

[0097] To fold the air bag 71, in a first place, the upper edge and the lower left and right edges of the air bag 71 are pushed toward the center of the air bag 71 to form three petal-shaped portions 74 a, 74 b and 74 c radially extending along the directions of the spoke portions (not shown) of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat to accommodate the air bag 71 (FIG. 8(B)). Then, both radially extending edges of the respective petal-shaped portions 74 a to 74 c are rolled up toward the center of the respective petal-shaped portions into three arm portions 75 a, 75 b and 75 c to form a generally Y-shaped folded body of the air bag 71 (FIG. 8(C)).

[0098] Though it is not shown, the air bag 71 is secured to a retainer at the peripheral edge of the opening 72 as in the embodiments described above. The center portion of the folded body of the air bag 71 is disposed at the center of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat in such a manner that the respective arm portions 75 a to 75 c extend from the center portion to the respective spoke portions along the directions in which the respective spoke portions extend. Then, the module cover is mounted to cover the air bag 71 to complete the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat. Other construction and operation of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat are the same as the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 1 shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3(E).

[0099] FIGS. 9(A) to 9(C) are explanatory drawings showing the second way of folding the air bag into a generally X-shaped configuration, and FIG. 9(D) is a cross sectional view of taken along line 9(D)-9(D) in FIG. 9(C).

[0100] An air bag 76 has the same construction as the air bag of the embodiment described above and has an opening 77 and vent holes 78 on the backside thereof. The air bag 76 is mounted to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat (not shown) having four spoke portions, as in the case shown in FIG. 4(D).

[0101] To fold the air bag 76, in a first place, the upper, lower, left and right edges of the air bag 76 are pushed toward the center of the air bag 76 to form four petal-shaped portions 79 a, 79 b, 79 c and 70 d radially extending along the directions of the spoke portions (not shown) of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat to accommodate the air bag 76 (FIG. 9(B)). Then, both radially extending edges of the respective petal-shaped portions 79 a to 79 d are rolled up toward the center of the respective petal-shaped portions on the front side of the air bag 76 into four arm portions 80 a, 80 b, 80 c and 80 d to form a generally X-shaped folded body of the air bag 76 (FIG. 9(C)).

[0102] Though it is not shown, the air bag 76 is secured to a retainer at the peripheral edge of the opening 77 as in the embodiments described above. The center portion of the folded body of the air bag 76 is disposed at the center of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat in such a manner that the respective arm portions 80 a to 80 d extend from the center portion to the respective spoke portions. Then, the module cover is mounted to cover the air bag 76 to complete the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat. Other construction and operation of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat are the same as those of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 20 shown in FIG. 4(D).

[0103] FIGS. 10(A) to 13(B) are explanatory drawings showing the second way of folding the air bag into a generally elongated linear configuration. In these figure, FIGS. 10(A), 11(A), 12(A) and 13(A) are plan views of the air bag, and FIGS. 10(B), 11(B), 12(B) and 13(B) are cross sectional views taken along respective lines 10(B)-10(B), 11(B)-11(B), 12(B)-12(B) and 13(B)-13(B).

[0104] An air bag 81 has the same construction as that of the embodiment described above, and has an opening 82 and vent holes 83 on the backside thereof. The air bag 81 is mounted to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat (not shown) having two spoke portions as in the case shown in FIG. 5(D), or to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat (not shown) having at least three spoke portions as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0105] To fold the air bag 81, in a first place, as shown in FIGS. 11(A) and 11(B), the upper and lower edges of the air bag 81 are respectively folded in bellows along the folding lines L4 into an elongated rectangular shape. Then, as shown in FIGS. 12(A) and 12(B), each edge of four corners of the rectangular air bag 81 is folded toward the front surface of the air bag 81 along the folding lines L5, and again along the folding lines L6, to make an elongated generally rhombus shape of the air bag 81 having tapered arm portions 84 a and 84 b on both sides as shown in FIG. 13(A).

[0106] Though it is not shown, the air bag 81 is secured to a retainer at the peripheral edge of the opening 82 as in the embodiments described above. The center portion of the folded body of the air bag 81 is disposed at the center of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat in such a manner that the respective arm portions 84 a and 84 b extend from the center portion to the respective spoke portions along the directions in which the respective spoke portions extend. Then, the module cover is mounted to cover the air bag 81 to complete the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat. Other construction and operation of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat are the same as those of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 40 shown in FIG. 5(D) or the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 60 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0107] FIGS. 14(A) to 16(B) are explanatory drawings showing the third way of folding the air bag into a generally elongated linear configuration. In these figures, FIGS. 14(A), 15(A), 16(A) are plan views of the air bag, and FIGS. 14(B), 15(B), 16(B) are cross sectional views taken along respective lines 14(B)-14(B), 15(B)-15(B), 16(B)-16(B).

[0108] An air bag 85 has the same construction as those of the embodiments described above and has an opening 86 and vent holes 87 on the backside thereof. The air bag 85 is mounted to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat (not shown) having two spoke portions as shown in FIG. 5(D), or to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat (not shown) having at least three spoke portions as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0109] To fold the air bag 85, in a first place as shown in FIGS. 15(A) and 15(B), the upper and lower edges of the air bag 85 are respectively rolled up on the front side of the air bag 85 toward the center thereof. Then, as shown in FIGS. 16(A) and 16(B), an elongated generally rectangular folded body of the air bag 85 having the arm portions 88 a and 88 b on both sides is formed.

[0110] Though it is not shown, the air bag 85 is secured to a retainer at the peripheral edge of the opening 86 as in the embodiments described above. The center portion of the folded body of the air bag 85 is disposed at the center of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat in such a manner that the respective arm portions 88 a and 88 b extend from the center portion to the respective spoke portions. Then, a module cover is mounted to cover the air bag 85 to complete the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat. Other construction and operation of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat are the same as those of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 40 shown in FIG. 5(D) or the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 60 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0111] FIGS. 17(A) to 19(B) are explanatory drawings showing the fourth way of folding the air bag into a generally elongated linear configuration. In these figures, FIGS. 17(A), 18(A), 19(A) are plan views of the air bag, and FIGS. 17(B), 18(B), 19(B) are cross sectional views taken along respective lines 17(B)-17(B), 18(B)-18(B), 19(B)-19(B).

[0112] An air bag 89 has the same construction as in the embodiments described above and has an opening 90 and vent holes 91 on the backside thereof. The air bag 89 is mounted to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat (not shown) having two spoke portions as shown in FIG. 5(D), or to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat (not shown) having at least three spoke portions as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0113] To fold the air bag 89, in a first place, as shown in FIGS. 18(A) and 18(B), the upper and lower edges of the air bag 89 are respectively folded in bellows toward the front surface of the air bag 87 along the folding lines L7 into generally rectangular shape. Then, the upper and lower edges of the thus folded air bag 89 are folded toward the front surface of the air bag 89 along the folding lines L8. Consequently, an elongated generally rectangular folded body of the air bag 89 having arm portions 92 a and 92 b on both sides is formed as shown in FIGS. 19(A), 19(B).

[0114] Though it is not shown, the air bag 89 is secured to a retainer at the peripheral edge of the opening 90 as in the embodiments described above. The center portion of the folded body of the air bag 89 is disposed at the center of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat along the directions in which the respective spoke portions extend in such a manner that the respective arm portions 92 a and 92 b extend from the center portion to the respective spoke portions. Then, the module cover is mounted to cover the air bag 89 to complete the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat. Other construction and operation of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat are the same as those of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 40 shown in FIG. 5(D) or the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 60 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0115] FIGS. 20(A) to 22(B) are explanatory drawings showing the fifth way of folding the air bag into a generally elongated linear configuration. In these figures, FIGS. 20(A), 21(A), 22(A) are plan views of the air bag, and FIGS. 20(B), 21(B), 22(B) are cross sectional views taken along the respective line 20(B)-20(B), 21(B)-21(B), 22(B)-22(B).

[0116] An air bag 93 has the same construction as that of the embodiments described above and has an opening 94 and vent holes 95 on the backside thereof. The air bag 93 is mounted to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat (not shown) having two spoke portions as shown in FIG. 5(D), or to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat (not shown) having at least three spoke portions as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0117] To fold the air bag 93, in a first place, as shown in FIGS. 21(A) and 21(B), the upper and lower edges of the air bag 93 are respectively folded in a form of bellows along the folding lines L9 into a generally oval configuration as shown in FIG. 21(A). Then, the portions of the air bag 93 near the center thereof are folded toward the front surface of the air bag 93 along the folding lines L10, L11 as shown in FIG. 22(B) so as to form a generally elongated linear folded shape of the air bag 93 having arm portions 96 a and 96 b on both sides.

[0118] Though it is not shown, the air bag 93 is secured to a retainer at the peripheral edge of the opening 94 as in the embodiments described above. The center portion of the folded body of the air bag 93 is disposed at the center of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat, and the respective arm portions 96 a and 96 b extend from the center portion to the respective spoke portions along the respective spoke portions. Then, a module cover is mounted to cover the air bag 93 to complete the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat. Other construction and operation of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat are the same as those of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 40 shown in FIG. 5(D) or the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat 60 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0119] As described above, according to the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat of the present invention, the air bag is arranged in such a manner that it extends from the center portion to the spoke portions of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat, and the air bag is covered with the module cover extending from the center portion to the spoke portions, so that the center portion of the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat can be downsized to a relatively small configuration. Therefore, the steering wheel comprising the air bag apparatus for the driver's seat of a slim design with a small center portion and elongated spoke portions may be formed.

[0120] In addition, since the tear lines are formed from the center portion to the spoke portions of the module cover on the backside of the module cover, the module cover can be securely torn from the center portion to the spoke portions.

[0121] While the invention has been explained with reference to the specific embodiments of the invention, the explanation is illustrative, and the invention is limited only by the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An air bag apparatus with a steering wheel, comprising: steering wheel section having a wheel center portion, wheel spoke portions extending radially outwardly from the wheel center portion, and a wheel section attached to the wheel spoke portions, a retainer attached to the steering wheel section, an air bag mounted on the retainer and disposed on the wheel center portion and the wheel spoke portions, an inflator connected to the retainer for inflating the air bag, and a module cover connected to the retainer for covering the air bag, said module cover having a cover center portion and cover spoke portions extending from the cover center portion corresponding to the wheel center portion and the wheel spoke portions.
 2. An air bag apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said module cover has at least one linear weakened portion to be torn extending from the cover center portion to the cover spoke portions.
 3. An air bag apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein said wheel center portion and the wheel spoke portions include concaves communicating with each other to receive the air bag therein.
 4. An air bag apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein said wheel center portion and the wheel spoke portions have upper surfaces dented from the wheel section, said module cover covering the upper surfaces of the wheel center portion and the wheel spoke portions so that an upper surface of the module cover is substantially flush with an upper surface of the wheel section.
 5. An air bag apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein said at least one linear weakened portion includes a plurality of tear lines communicating each other and extending radially outwardly from the cover center portion to the cover spoke portions.
 6. An air bag apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said air bag, when disposed in the wheel center portion and wheel spoke portions, has elongated arm portions to be disposed in the wheel spoke portions.
 7. An air bag apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein a number of the arm portions of the air bag corresponds to a number of the wheel spoke portions.
 8. An air bag apparatus adapted to be attached to a steering wheel having a wheel center portion, wheel spoke portions extending radially outwardly from the wheel center portion, and a wheel section attached to the wheel spoke portions, said air bag apparatus comprising: a retainer to be attached to the steering wheel section, an air bag mounted on the retainer to be disposed on the wheel center portion and the wheel spoke portions, an inflator connected to the retainer for inflating the air bag, and a module cover connected to the retainer for covering the air bag, said module cover having a cover center portion and cover spoke portions extending from the cover center portion corresponding to the wheel center portion and the wheel spoke portions.
 9. An air bag apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein said module cover has at least one linear weakened portion to be torn extending from the cover center portion to the cover spoke portions.
 10. An air bag apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein said at least one linear weakened portion includes a plurality of tear lines communicating each other and extending radially outwardly from the cover center portion to the cover spoke portions.
 11. An air bag apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein when said air bag is folded, the air bag has a center portion and at least two elongated arm portions extending from the center portion, each of the elongated arm portions having a radial length substantially corresponding to a radial length of the air bag before the air bag is folded.
 12. An air bag apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein said elongated arm portions are not folded substantially radially inwardly toward the center portion when the air bag is folded.
 13. An air bag apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein a number of the arm portions of the air bag corresponds to a number of the wheel spoke portions. 